Could Edelbrock cast a flathead block

[Bored&Stroked]

I spent quite a bit of time looking at the Kirby aluminum block - didn't like the weird sleeve setup at all. I imagine they had some real issues trying to get it from "one off prototype" to anywhere near production - with the right tooling, fixturing, CNC programs, etc.. I can't imagine it ever being "cost effective" to do - has to be a complete labor of love where the amount of time invested comes from individuals with a passion and probably not a viable "new product introduction business plan". I've made a lot of those plans and spreadsheets - the numbers tell the story and they probably wouldn't be good in this case. BUT, when one has a lot of time, knowledge, computer software, skills AND relentless passion . . . things can get done! Go Ray . . . Go!

[Henry Floored]

Originally Posted by Bored&Stroked

I spent quite a bit of time looking at the Kirby aluminum block - didn't like the weird sleeve setup at all. I imagine they had some real issues trying to get it from "one off prototype" to anywhere near production - with the right tooling, fixturing, CNC programs, etc.. I can't imagine it ever being "cost effective" to do - has to be a complete labor of love where the amount of time invested comes from individuals with a passion and probably not a viable "new product introduction business plan". I've made a lot of those plans and spreadsheets - the numbers tell the story and they probably wouldn't be good in this case. BUT, when one has a lot of time, knowledge, computer software, skills AND relentless passion . . . things can get done! Go Ray . . . Go!

.......and yet unusual stuff gets made every day.

I think this should be a co-op with Ford themselves. For gosh sakes Ford is a leader in large casting technology.

If there is any engine that could use some updates it is the Ford Flathead. There are tons of Flatty's going together every year.

If Kirby's project didn't pan out the way he hoped at least he showed us the benefit of an improved design.

Do you all realize for example that Kirby was able to squeeze in a 3.5" bore by reducing the head bolt size, which gave him room for the bore periphery?

We discussed that one time and he felt that the original headbolts in the Ford were too large and unyielding. Instead of stretching to provide clamping force they warped the decks. I agree 100% with him. I would bet money that a longer "torque to yield" bolt of smaller diameter in a blind hole would be a vast improvement and make more room for a bigger bore at the same time.

[J Witt]

Interesting to read all the different takes on making new flatheads. My feeling about this is that such a project is quite interesting and would be fun to do.

When you got to the end though, what you would have is not a flathead engine like we know and love. You won't find anyone putting one in a show car for judging. If you want to improve the flathead, just go straight to a fuel injected Cosworth Ford DFV.

Another answer to the problem is to put in a cheap modern engine with roughly the same torque and horsepower (or more!) as the street rod guys do. Put your old flattie in a box and preserve it and sell it with the car. I essentially did this with my 1912 Model T which was powered by a 1921 engine with a generator and electric start. Sold it complete with a rebuildable 1912 engine.

I want my '36 to be as near original as I can keep it to have the feel, sound and "flavor" of the original. In that light, I'm rebuilding the original engine. If it turns out to have a cracked block or some other major disaster, a small block V8 will go in there in a New York minute.

John